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Italian Meatballs In The Slow Cooker

You don’t have to be a pasta aficionado to love these Italian meatballs! Perfect on their own or with a full array of sides - make your own healthy and fresh Italian meatballs in the slow cooker for delicious results every time. This low-prep beef meatball recipe will be a timesaver and a new favorite on the menu!
Course Main Course
Cuisine American, Italian
Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 4 hours
Total Time 4 hours 10 minutes
Servings 4 people
Calories 230kcal

Equipment

  • Slow Cooker

Ingredients

  • 1 pound lean ground beef I used 94% lean
  • 1/4 cup grated zucchini
  • 1/4 cup shredded parmesan cheese
  • 1 egg lightly beaten
  • 1 teaspoon Homemade Italian Dressing Mix
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 2 tablespoons panko breadcrumbs regular or gluten-free
  • 2 tablespoons milk
  • ½ cup marinara sauce

Instructions

  • Mix panko breadcrumbs with milk, then combine all ingredients (except marinara sauce) in mixing bowl
  • Mix by hand until combined
  • Form into meatballs and place in single layer in slow cooker (I made mine slightly larger than golf balls and it made 8)
  • Pour marinara sauce across meatballs
  • Cover and cook on high for 3-4 hours or low for 6-8 until meatballs are cooked through

Notes

  • To make this as a freezer meal, complete all preparation steps, except adding marinara, and store in a freezer-safe bag or container for up to 3 months. Defrost and follow cooking directions.
  • Store leftovers in the fridge for up to 3 days and freeze for up to 3 months in an airtight container.
  • Reheat in the microwave or oven until warmed through.
  • I prefer using an ice cream scoop for even measuring.
  • Use a larger slow cooker to evenly spread the meatballs in a single layer.

Nutrition

Calories: 230kcal | Carbohydrates: 7g | Protein: 29g | Fat: 9g | Saturated Fat: 4g | Polyunsaturated Fat: 1g | Monounsaturated Fat: 3g | Trans Fat: 0.4g | Cholesterol: 117mg | Sodium: 676mg | Potassium: 551mg | Fiber: 1g | Sugar: 2g | Vitamin A: 269IU | Vitamin C: 4mg | Calcium: 95mg | Iron: 3mg